The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke is a compelling western tale that masterfully blends adventure, mystery, and heartfelt character development. While this isn’t my usual genre, I’m so glad I took a chance on it as part of the virtual book tour – it turned out to be a refreshing and engaging read! 

 

The story centres on Josh Barnes, a man grappling with memory loss after a near-fatal encounter, and Amy Tanner, a determined young woman on a mission to find lost Jesuit gold to save her struggling family. Together, they embark on a perilous journey filled with unexpected twists, from facing ruthless bank robbers to uncovering eerie secrets on Devil’s Mountain. 

 

The rich, historical setting immediately drew me in, transporting me to a time when life’s values and challenges were so different from our own. While the pacing was slower than I typically prefer, the vivid storytelling kept me engaged throughout. Josh’s amnesia added a fascinating layer of mystery – though it initially made me cautious of his character, I soon found myself rooting for his redemption and his growing connection with Amy. Their evolving bond felt both authentic and deeply moving, adding a heartfelt touch to the high-stakes adventure. 

For fans of westerns or stories that combine danger, romance, and mystery, The Shattered Past is a must-read. It’s a tale of resilience, trust, and second chances that will keep you turning the pages. I’m thrilled to know this is the first in a new series, and I look forward to seeing what Josh and Amy uncover next! 

 

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of historical westerns, adventurous romances, and stories that blend mystery with heart-pounding action. 

 

I’m truly appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the blog tour for The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke. The tour runs from 15 to 24 January 2025, hosted by ZooLoo’s Book Tours on behalf of Janey Clarke and Blossom Spring Publishing. Thank you for introducing me to a new genre and a talented author! 

 

All views expressed are my own. This MOMOBOOKDIARY review, or parts of it, may also be shared on my social media channels and various book platforms. Links are accurate at the time of publication.